Good morning everyone!  The weatherman says it's going to be hot and rainy the next few days.  Really??  Haven't we had enough of that already?  I do have to say that we were very blessed yesterday when the storm came through - Carl told me that we had straight-line winds and hail, basically stuff was flying everywhere - and after it was all over, we only lost one tree.  Unfortunately, my neighbors lost 2 trees and part of another one.  One of their trees was approximately an 80 y.o. pine - a beautiful, tall tree in the front of their yard.  What comes after rain.....rainbows!!  I have pictures of both ends and one end was a double rainbow.

I have to share a story of what great friends can do.  My in-laws were in North Carolina last week visiting my sister-in-law and her husband, and when they pulled in the driveway yesterday, there were two signs on the front of their house.  One said "welcome home" and the other said "enjoy your new deck).  That's right - about 20 of their friends had a garage sale to raise money for a deck and all the furnishings.  It's absolutely beautiful and something that I know they will enjoy for many years to come.  Their generosity and compassion are amazing.  I know John and Peggy are definitely loved by their friends.

I have a few recipes to share with you.  Carl and the boys liked the salad which made me happy - salads are not often a big hit around my house - and one is for chicken.

Margarita Chicken
1 can baccardis frozen margarita mix
boneless chicken breasts (I used the ones in a bag)

Marinate chicken in margarita mix overnight and grill. 

Note:  I added 1 can of water to my mix and I think I'll just use the mix next time - maybe the chicken will have more of a lime flavor.  The chicken was good - just not a strong flavor.

Sunny Broccoli Salad
(recipe from bettycrocker.com)

1 box Suddenly Salad bacon & ranch flavor
4 cups chopped broccoli
1 cup mayo
2 tblsp. cider vinegar
2 tblsp. sugar
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup chopped red onion

Prepare pasta according to package directions.  Drain and rinse in cold water.  Mix together seasoning pouch, mayo, vinegar, and sugar.  In separate bowl, combine pasta, broccoli, raisins, sunflower seeds, and onions.  Toss with seasoning mixture and serve.

I'm running out of time today, so next time I'll share pictures of some items I bought at a flea market a few weeks ago plus pictures from a Harlem Wizards game.  Before I go, I want to leave you with a quote that I found on a friends page on Facebook: 

Worrying is like sitting in a rocking chair......It gives you something to do but it doesn't get you anywhere.

Have a wonderful day all :)